The Evolution of the Shipiao Teapot
The Shipiao teapot is one of the most familiar teapot styles, with many variations. Common types include the Ziyé Shipiao, Jingzhou Shipiao, Xīnzhōu Shipiao, Hantang Shipiao, Pinggai Shipiao, and more.
But do you know how the Shipiao teapot gradually came into the spotlight?
In ancient times, the Shipiao teapot was called the "Shi Diao" teapot. Names like Dongpo Shipiao, Ti Liang Shipiao, Ziyé Shipiao, and Xīnzhōu Shipiao were given by later generations.
(dongpo shi piao teapot)
The origin of the Shipiao teapot can be traced back to the Dongpo Shipiao, designed by Su Dongpo during the Northern Song Dynasty. At that time, it was still called "Shi Diao." Later, the Qing Dynasty painter You Yin acquired it and created the artwork Plum Blossom and Stone Diao Pot. This painting influenced many people.
During the Qing Dynasty, Chen Mansheng discussed teapots with his friend Jiang Tingxiang. Inspired by the "Diao" shape, they created the Mansheng Ti Liang (a handled version) and later the Mansheng Shipiao teapot.
Around the same time, Ziyé Shipiao was designed by Qu Yingshao (also known as Ziyé). Another Qing Dynasty craftsman, He Xīnzhōu, designed the Xīnzhōu Shipiao.
(Ziyé Shipiao)
In more recent times, Chen Guangming created the Guangming Shipiao.
In the modern era, the famous potter Gu Jingzhou renamed the "Shi Diao" teapot to "Shipiao," inspired by the phrase "Weak water three thousand, I only take one scoop." His design, originally called "Man Piao," is now known as the Jingzhou Shipiao.
(Jingzhou Shipiao)
Gu Jingzhou’s student, the national master Xu Hantang, later designed the Hantang Shipiao.
Each variation of the Shipiao teapot carries its own history and charm, making it a timeless classic in the world of Yixing teapots.
